Data

General Issues
Governance & Political Institutions
Specific Topics
Political Rights
Citizenship & Role of Citizens
Intergovernmental Relations
Location
Links
Citizens Assemblies: The Democracy Upgrade
Start Date
Ongoing
Yes

CASE

Citizens Assemblies: The Democracy Upgrade

August 20, 2024 pleighni11
July 13, 2024 dghassemi25
General Issues
Governance & Political Institutions
Specific Topics
Political Rights
Citizenship & Role of Citizens
Intergovernmental Relations
Location
Links
Citizens Assemblies: The Democracy Upgrade
Start Date
Ongoing
Yes

Imagine this: For years your city’s been grappling with homelessness, but nothing’s worked. In fact, it’s gotten worse. Folks are divided, angry, and fed up. Finally, officials decide to try something new. A group of everyday people from all walks of life is chosen by democratic lottery—and you are among those selected. Over several weeks, you hear from scholarly experts, social workers, police officers, community advocates, local businesspeople, and residents who’ve experienced homelessness. You have respectful conversations about what you’ve learned; you listen to each other, weigh trade-offs, and offer reasons for your thinking. Finally, you come to a rough consensus about what to do. Your proposals balance head and heart: investments in affordable housing; mental health services; public safety; law enforcement; drug rehab; and job programs. Best of all, you’re in broad agreement, giving officials a sound basis to act. It takes time, but gradually things improve. Homeless residents receive the services they need. Crime falls. And the community heals. The government, buoyed by the process, repeats it on other issues. As more and more residents take their turn serving, the city becomes a place where all belong and everyone has a voice. Sound far-fetched? It’s real. The process described above is called a citizens' assembly, and it’s transforming the world.

Problems and Purpose

Background History and Context

Organizing, Supporting, and Funding Entities

Participant Recruitment and Selection

Methods and Tools Used

What Went On: Process, Interaction, and Participation

Influence, Outcomes, and Effects

Analysis and Lessons Learned

See Also

References

External Links

Notes